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fly in the ointment
01
a person or thing that ruins an otherwise positive or enjoyable situation
Idiom
Informal
What is the origin of the idiom "a fly in the ointment" and when to use it?
The idiom "a fly in the ointment" comes from the biblical book of Ecclesiastes and refers to a small, annoying issue or problem that spoils or taints an otherwise favorable or pleasant situation. The phrase is used to highlight how even a minor flaw or inconvenience can detract from the overall quality or enjoyment of something.
Examples
The hotel was beautiful, but the noisy road outside was the fly in the ointment.
